3. Receive your Zipcard

Am I eligible to be a Zipcar member?

You can apply for Zipcar membership if you’re at least 21 years old (or 18-20 if you are a student at a university affiliated with Zipcar) and have a valid driver’s license. For non-US based licenses, or residents of Michigan, learn more.

What is a Zipcard?

Your Zipcard is an access card that unlocks your Zipcar. Remember, bring your Zipcard with you for every reservation.

How long is the application process?

Apply online in minutes. Expect one day to verify your driver license. If there’s a reason for delay, we’ll email you. Once approved, we’ll mail you your Zipcard in 3-7 days. Activate your Zipcard, then you can book and drive immediately. Learn how to check the status of your application.

Book Zipcar trips on the go with our app.

How do I book a reservation?

How do I cancel or modify a reservation?

Cancel or change your reservation up to 30 minutes after booking at no charge via the mobile app or online under My Account > My Trips. For rules on cancelling or changing without charge before your reservation starts, learn more here.

Where do I return my Zipcar?

Your Zipcar must be returned to the same spot where you picked it up. In select cities, you can book one way trips and drop-off your Zipcar at a different location. To learn more about one-way reservations, click here.

To drive, tap your Zipcard to the reader on the windshield to lock and unlock at the start and end of each reservation. Remember, the keys to the car should always stay in the car.

How do I find my Zipcar?

We send details about your Zipcar and location information in a confirmation email. You can also find location details under My Trips in the mobile app.

What if I get into an accident or need roadside assistance?

Your Zipcar membership includes insurance (learn more about insurance coverage here) and roadside assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you need help while on the road, call 1-866-4ZIPCAR and we will take care of the details.

Where is the gas card located?

You can find the gas card in the visor over the driver’s seat of every Zipcar. You’ll need your mileage and Zipcard number when you go to the pump. Remember to always return cars with at least ¼ tank of gas to avoid fees.

Who can drive my Zipcar?

Only active Zipcar members are allowed to drive Zipcars. Other Zipcar members can also drive your Zipcar with your permission. Learn more.

Return on time

What do I if my Zipcar is damaged?

Before you start driving, inspect your Zipcar inside and out. While we expect the previous member to leave the Zipcar in good standing for you, it is important to report any issues before you drive. Learn more.

How do I extend my reservation?

Provided that another member does not have a reservation immediately after yours, you can extend your trip using the mobile app or by texting. If the car isn't available, you'll need to return on time as someone after you has reserved the car.

What happens if I’m late in returning my Zipcar?

The key to car-sharing success is returning on time. Late members can end up impacting others who have the reservation right after, and no one likes that. To avoid returning late, always make sure to book the Zipcar for the time you need and extend it if you know you won't be back on time. Zipcar does take late returns seriously and we will charge a $50 late fee if you return late.